improvement of technicality , especially soundstage , imaging and positioning from KZ on their single driver had been slowly but surely improve over time , I first seen that in the ESX 10th Anniversary , then recently Ling-Long , and now ZVX .. your review convince me , this ZVX is one I need to acquire
Wow...Great review Andy...Nice production values and grading system...Still awaiting for the ZVX to launch in Indian stores...Thanks for your work...Cheers...
@@getsandy2007 ZVX is a better tuned near neutral IEM compared to Salnotes Zero and with better resolution too. Hola on the other hand is even less resolving and less technical, but perhaps good if you prefer safe tuning that is smooth and airy
@@andreasruhz4385 hey bro, I am thinking about getting these iem instead of 7hz zero. Can you give me your review after using it for 2 months? I actually read somewhere that the audio in these iem shifts more to the right one after usage of 1 month. I'll really appreciate your help
Very good presentation .. short and simple .. without the imprecise comparison .. true to point and honest. Thank you very much Bro. Keep it up and I have got myself a new Tanchjim Zero with all your repeated posting in Dongle madness group. Now I am poisoned to extend of no return. Zero is indeed illegal with impressive soundstage and transparency. It is really something comparing with CCA CXS 😂
Another fine tune KZ D-Fi is coming. I am study D-Fi graph. Slight different from ZVX on the presence, mid treble, air region which is tone down a bit to tailor for a bigger market.
I just received the zvx; and I find the balance to be effortless, no eq,, not annoying peaks trying to keep up with bass, and bass is staying in its lane, but still giving texture and shape. I need to give these some time but they certainly can grow on me
Eiraa, my ZVX recently developed some kind of driver or housing issue, so I can't use them anymore, the sound on the right side became hollow and echoy, I'm in the process of getting a refund.. Also, I just recieved the KZ X HBB PR2 yesterday, and so far they are really good.. I'd recommend them over the ZVX, given my ZVX hasn't been the only ZVX to have issues, from what I've been told in the Facebook chifi community.. If you did happen to get a good ZVX unit, they're still worth it though.. But the PR2 would be my current KZ rec..
Amazing Review! Btw, have you tried the 7hz Salnotes Zero and the Tangzhu Wan' Er? Those are also incredibly tuned neutral IEMs at the same price of $20 usd. Please do a review of those!
Thanks! Yes I have tried both and in fact you can check my other video on Battle of The Zero IEMs. Wan'Er SG I have reviewed separately but not on video
@@donglemadness Ohh I didn't know. I just found your channel today and subbed. Where can I find your review on the Wan'Er SG? Edit: Nvm I just found your Head-fi profile with the review!
Hey Andy, I first stumbled upon your channel while seeing reviews of ZVX and bro..its awesme...the way your present + the points table..its awesome. Currently I am using KZ ESX primarily for sub-bass and bigger soundsatge for synthwave/techno/chillstep/lofi kind of music with almost negligible vocals. I want to upgrade my IEMS but they need to have sub-bass and big soundstage for sure + be little more musical than ESX + no sharp ear piercing treble . Can you please suggest something in 50$ range. Thanks in advance!!
@@abhishekbhardwaj7764 Yes of course, I recommend DQ6S because it has richer and denser Subbass which seems to ve suitable for your music preferences. But hey can't go wrong with ZVX if you are not an outright Basshead
I have the ZVX and the Castor Bass set with all the switches on to flatten its curve and find that really helps. It is layered and more dimensional just more forward enough than the ZVX to do so but the ZVX is smooth from being less forward. They both offer wonderful listening but are different. I hear the Pula PA02 has this different signature and you mentioned the Sivga Nightengale this way too. Perhaps a review of the Pula PA02 vs the Nightengale, and ZVX is in order?
Andy, Chanced upon to see your video on KZ ZVX. Very unbiased opinion. Appreciate that. Have a few queries. I am a new comer into Lossless Audio. Currently I have iPhone 15 Pro and SONY WH1000XM4. Based on your review of ZVX, planning to buy it. Hope, it will be compatible with 15 Pro with a DAC Dongle. Have shortlisted few DACs - KZ AM-01 (it's DAC Chip - CX31993 & Op-Amp MAX97220), JCally 30 (DAC Cirrus Logic Chip-CS43131& Savitech Op-Amp SA9123L), JCally JM6E, JCally JM9. Pl suggest which of these DACs that'll go well with ZVX & 15 Pro. Thanks in advance.
Thanks!. Based on the options you provided, those are all ultra compact dongles, and the reality is, they are closely matched to each other. Between AM01 and 30, they do offer a bit more of power which works better with planars as well as single DD. For ZVX I would recommend AM01 more as I feel that the synergy is good between those two
@@donglemadness Thanks for your response. Happened to watch tear down video of KZ D-Fi. Understand the DD is common in both ZVX & D-Fi. I love to listen to Indian Film Songs, Classical Songs and Western Songs with more of a Bass. With a cheap DAC Dongle connected with 15 Pro, my Sony WH1000XM4 gives excellent frequency response when played Hi-Res FLAC Songs supported by an Equaliser. I prefer more of a Thumbing Bass effect. Considering my taste, will D-Fi suit me ? If so, then AM01 should also be compatible with D-Fi. Of course, I am assuming that other aspects of technicalities of both ZVX & D-Fi on par with each other. If D-Fi is rating wise on lower side, then I would prefer to go for ZVX. Pl advise. Thanks.
Thanks Renato, on my primary site I only do tier ranking for DAC dongles, but I have not done any rank tier for IEMs. So far the only sort of tier I have done was on Top 5 of 2022 which I did a video end of last year. Cheers!
I am looking to buy my first IEMs as my earphones broke and I need a cabled one since I use them a lot so a true wireless won't be enough yet. Plus I can use the IEMs wirelessly later. My quesitont is, the KZ ZSNs are slightly cheaper where I live. And it has more drivers. FiiO JH3 and KZ ZS10 Pro is still within my budget. More drivers doesn't always mean better, so do you think it's worth getting the more expensive ones as my first IEMs or should I just go for the ZVX or ZSN?
You are right about one thing, more drivers does not mean better. What matters more is how they are tuned and implemented. Even a single DD can still be superbly superior than many hybrids. The very best IEM I own which is Shure KSE1500 is a single driver true Electrostatic and it is unmatched by anything I have ever used. Stick to ZVX and you should be good. I will even say get Tanchjim ZERO while at it since it is dirt cheap and yet to me ZERO is the best still for anything under $100
I just got this IEM. I was very suprised how it perform. I got it on sale in Indonesia for equivalent $12. I bought because it look very nice. It was shocking to hear it on my Hiby dap. I wish I had seeen this video before, I would have bought it sooner. I have two questions, if you have time. First, what is the best foam tips I can buy for ZVX? The box came with only one set of foams, too small, and the others were the starlines. Second question, now I have KZ Pr2, which I love, and purchased after asking you if my DAP was able to drive them, yes, on double ended, high gain, at 90 out of 100 volume, can open up beautifully..and have ZVX, which is mind boggling at the price...what is your recommendation for my next KZ set? Thank you...great video!
That's awesome. Eartips really is dependent on the wearer biology. The same tips you mentioned as being small is the very same one that I like and use the most. 70% of my ear tips now are KZ Foams which I bought separately off AliExpress/Shopee. Perhaps you can check if they have the size you need. Always remember that what works for me, may not work for others. Next KZ set? after Krila/Castor/AS24 II don't have any newer KZ yet. To me, ZVX/DF-i/PR2 are the ones that stand out the most still
@@donglemadness Thanks so much, will order the kz foams in different sizes.. Good, I don't have to try those other kz sets, I will get the Dfi next..you have the one with switches?
Dear Andy, thank you for this review. Basend on your opinion and other RUclipsrs I decided to purchase this model (currently using KZ ZS10 pro which I really like). I listen mostly to electronic music and would like to ask you how this KZ ZVX compare to SIMGOT EA500? The score in your videos is almost the same with 5 star grade. In the near future I probably will be wanting to buy something even better than ZVX and was wondering if I should go for SIMGOT EA500, will this be an emprovement over the ZVX or can you say that despite the price they are equally good? Thank you !
Between ZVX and EA500, the tuning is slightly different. But on technical aspect they are pretty much on par. I would even say the EA500 with Red Nozzle will be focused on "warmer" sort of sound. ZVX is notably closer to neutral target while EA500 is just minor hint of coloration. But either way both are already great in their own way and can't go wrong with any of them
@@donglemadness thank you for the response, i wonder what the future will bring because if I understood correctly this is a great time for cheap IEMs as some of the newest releases can compete with much pricier gear from couple years ago.
Awesome review as always. Please I want your honest opinion which chifi iem has the best macrodynamics or macro detail? I've been spoilt with ESX's macro detail which even my $400 IEM doesn't come close in that area. ESX has made me to dig into my music library again and again. Sadly I don't have my ESX again plus the new batch doesn't have that magic 'macro deatil' not micro detail
You are looking at it, ZVX and the other version I am testing now, DF-i. Both are amazing with details handling both Macro and Micro. Even CCA CXS was already good at it. You can also look into Simgot EA500 with black nozzle. I have tried the ESX and I must say the ESX does not offer the sort of resolution and accuracy like ZVX does
I personally haven't tried this type of cable that has pause function. That would probably depend on your source as well. Perhaps you can check on some QDC pin cables that has MIC which normally also has buttons for use with Play/Pause
So i have the zvx and listened to it for about 2 days now. It sounds so good! I haven't had another kz iem before, so i can't compare. It's ok from my phone, listening to Spotify. But with quieter songs from cayin n3, there's a slight noise floor even on low gain. Would you recommend abigail pro to improve it? To eliminate noise floor and improve air extension?
Yes, it simply means that ZVX being highly sensitive will pick up artifacts and background noises. Something like Abigail Pro could help to emit cleaner background as with many other good dongles including JCally JM7 (essentially similar to Abigail Pro)
@@donglemadness hi again and sorry if unrelated to the video. So I already tried my zvx with my laptop. But the laptop does not detect it. Admittedly, my laptop takes some plugging-unplugging routine from my full sized cans before I hear anything. Do you think a dongle like Abigail could negate the problem?
That would be either Kinera Idun Golden if you want very neutral flat sound curve (but very organic), or BQEYZ Winter or TANGZU Heyday, all three of them I loved very dearly
Hi Andy. Have you tried KZ PR1 PRO. People claim it’s better than pr1, pr2 and pr3? Also, could you share the link to your IEM spreadsheet? I could only find dongle spreadsheet. Thanks.
Unfortunately no, I haven't tried PR1 Pro. The 2023 IEM XLS is here: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/18asFuMD3tRNT5WOOJDZS5GLe9wUW2Lxv/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=112460069217171938319&rtpof=true&sd=true
I am very curious why the tkzk ouranos hasn't been mentioned again in these newer reviews. Are these cheaper iems like the tanchjim zero and the kz better sounding for your own taste than the ouranos?
I have tons of IEMs and I will of course mention the ones that I personally use regularly and fit best my preferences. What is best for me is of course Tanchjim ZERO by account that I use it more over tons of others I have in hand. That doesn't mean the rest are less favourable, the fact remains, so many IEMs now exhibits amazing quality and I have yet to find anything this year that I would consider as bad
@@Dr.Anwarali Anything under $200, Tanchjim ZERO is the one with the most open and wide soundstage, on top of being illegally great sounding. Then if you want the best, Hidizs MP145 and Final Audio A5000, two of my regular favourites
I watch lots of movies and listen to all types of songs and i need a theatrical effect so do u prefer this ZVX ? And my other options are eda balanced version and zsn pro x
hi, i am from a little country in Africa(Burkina Faso).I love your reviews.How does this ZVX compare to kz PR1 hifi in terms of technicalities?I altready have 7hz zero and i like it but I am looking for something more engaging with better technicalities.thanks
PR1 is great with technicalities as well but would require even more power to shine. ZVX is more efficient yet I also think it has more refined presentation with technicalities. But it is very close with both of them because, both already pushing the standards really high.
@@donglemadnessThanks ever so much for replying me. I use a sonata E44 as a dongle.Do you think this can make the pr1 shine enough to make a real difference with the KZ ZVX?thanks
@@alexandrezoubga The most energetic dongles are E44, PEE51, Earmen Sparrow, iBasso DC04 (non Pro). They have enough brightness I consider as proper. If you need more brightness, go for JCally JM20, E1DA 9038, HIBY FC3 etc
anyone here used zvx for a week already? coz i'm slightly worried about driver flex. apparently the linglong has noticeable driver flex -- i saw 3 people say that the sound is already affected and one said that the driver is already damaged.
Currently I'm using kz esx. N i want to upgrade with a price that is not far different. Kz dfi no switch, kz zvx or stay in kz esx or another brand? I like to listen to the natural sound. Vocal lively , sound stage wide, bass but not too much. Which one I need to buy? Can u suggest for me?
Best sounding can be very subjective to what you prefer more in sound tuning. Do you like it neutral or close to neutral? do you like it more of Harman tuning? more bass? more treble? all comes into play. ZVX and DF-i are practically similar. C3 and Ouranos also quite similar in the way they are tuned, can't go wrong with any one of them
@@donglemadness thanks for your your Input. But in terms of technical performance, which ones are the best of those four? Could it possibly the cheaper ones are better in technicalities? Or is it just an unwritten rule that the more expensive the IEMs the better their technicalities?
They share the same spot. Each scoring 86 and 87 points respectively. But if you want a bit of precision, ZVX it is, a bit of smoothness EA500 (with Red Nozzle). Can't go wrong with any one of them
Ty for the review. But sadly, very harsh treble and highs. I only listen to Power and speed metal like Blind Guardian, Symphony X etc. Useless foe this kind on music, returned then the next day. I would give them a 4/10 overall.
I use ZERO more over everything else, including my $2000 USD KSE1500, which is the absolute king of IEMs, so it is a very personal thing to me this ZERO, as I said it clicks to my taste, not exactly a king or anything like that as ZERO has it downsides too. Just a very personal thing
This is a surprise coming from KZ Now I'm curious how this competes to the 7hz Salnotes Zero, Tangzu Wan Er, Truthear Hola and all of the other iems in this price Its crazy how more iems keep getting cheap while becoming more and more capable of delivering good quality sound Thank you for the in depth review as always will definitely check this out myself
I have 7hZ ZERO, Wan'Er SG and Hola and a few more within this price range. I can say that both KZ ZVX and Simgot EA500 are both superior to any of those under $100 in terms of sonic performances. Well at least I really like the smooth, musical Wan'Er SG, but definitely 7Hz/Salnotes ZERO and HOLA are not something I would personally prefer to use. Thanks again!
@@donglemadness Thank you for your insight on the other iems mentioned, interesting to know that you prefer the KZ ZVX I want to ask an additional question though, you mentioned that your favorite is the Tanchjim Zero and began researching about it. Have you tried the Tanchjim OLA the original and Bass version yet? Others are saying thats the iem to get instead of the Tanchjim Zero I'm pretty much experimenting on iems on the cheaper side first before I ever spend $100 - $200
@@roviccastillo9087 Yes. I have both OLA versions as well and I prefer ZERO way more over the OLAs. In fact I have 4 Tanchjim ZEROs with me which I use regularly over many other IEMs that I have. It just simply clicks to my taste and preferences. I even declared that Tanchjim ZERO is the only IEM I need if I have to settle for just one, but that's just me and a very personal choice
@@donglemadness Sorry for the lengthy conversation but I'm curious to know as well what the shortcomings of the OLA versions are for you compared to the Zero I'll be analyzing these sets myself when they arrive but your insights in audio equipment interests me since I also value natural/organic details and tonality
@@roviccastillo9087 OLA both versions are good sets, no doubt about it. But in my view they lacked the fluidity of Tanchjim ZERO with dynamic transients due to focus on being crisp and ended up sounding a bit sharper than what I normally prefer. It is also lacking organic temperament to the tonal and timbre presentation. If you want to read the whole story, you can find it here: www.head-fi.org/showcase/tanchjim-ola-bass-version.26185/review/29598/
This beats the Simgot EA500 and the Heyday by about 5 points…💀 No point in comparing it to the rest of the $20 line up then huh? --- Update: I goofed and misread the charts. 😅
If you check again EA500 total score is 86/100. ZVX is 87/100. Also consider the element of timbre and tone as well where the differences could work for one person, may not so much on others. EA500 (red nozzle) has smooth dynamics energy where ZVX is more on crisp attack (if both compared side by side).
No one expected a KZ could get 5 star rating 👏🏻 kudos to KZ
I like this kind of very good review where the cheap stuff is not considered with disdain.
I just discovered this channel. A great review . Malaysia , how wonderful.
Thanks and welcome
Great review Andy.. thanks ❤
My set supposed to arrive every day now...liked the cca cxs... sure I'm gonna LOVE it.
Thank you 🙏
Yeah just released my review of them. Very good sounding IEM. KZ is going in the right direction for sure.
Thank you for the review. I am watching it with my ZVX and everything you say is very true about this iem.
Enjoy it🤘
Another good video. Will add this to my HIT list.
Superb review!
Thank you very much for sharing ❤️🙏🏼
My pleasure 🙏😁
Thx Andy, great work as usual
My pleasure
thank you so much for continuing to broaden our iem horizons
My pleasure 🙏
I'm now seeing your video with my KZ ZVX Black color. I love it. I paid only 14 euros from Aliexpress, last month.
Awesome
improvement of technicality , especially soundstage , imaging and positioning from KZ on their single driver had been slowly but surely improve over time , I first seen that in the ESX 10th Anniversary , then recently Ling-Long , and now ZVX ..
your review convince me , this ZVX is one I need to acquire
My pleasure :D
im late in picking up this IEM but omg I
@@ufopulseim tempted to buy this one too but i already have the krila.
I really love your videos!
Thanks man
Quality content as always😊
Thank you!
Wow...Great review Andy...Nice production values and grading system...Still awaiting for the ZVX to launch in Indian stores...Thanks for your work...Cheers...
My pleasure my friend
@@donglemadnessPlease compare ZVX with Hola and Salnotes Zero.
@@getsandy2007 ZVX is a better tuned near neutral IEM compared to Salnotes Zero and with better resolution too. Hola on the other hand is even less resolving and less technical, but perhaps good if you prefer safe tuning that is smooth and airy
@@donglemadness Thanks for your reply. I have enjoyed your detailed review, will go for ZVX only.
got it? which store? ty
Great review Andy 🙂
Thanks!
thanks for your effort mate. Keep it up!
My pleasure. Thanks 🙏
Thanks for the review. I listened to you and got one. I put 60 hours on it and you are right it’s amazing!
My pleasure. ZVX is definitely a keeper
@@donglemadness it benefits from a bit more power FC4 but 4.4 doesn’t work
@@andreasruhz4385 hey bro, I am thinking about getting these iem instead of 7hz zero. Can you give me your review after using it for 2 months? I actually read somewhere that the audio in these iem shifts more to the right one after usage of 1 month. I'll really appreciate your help
Very good presentation .. short and simple .. without the imprecise comparison .. true to point and honest. Thank you very much Bro. Keep it up and I have got myself a new Tanchjim Zero with all your repeated posting in Dongle madness group. Now I am poisoned to extend of no return. Zero is indeed illegal with impressive soundstage and transparency. It is really something comparing with CCA CXS 😂
I got Zeros tooo so good
Another fine tune KZ D-Fi is coming. I am study D-Fi graph. Slight different from ZVX on the presence, mid treble, air region which is tone down a bit to tailor for a bigger market.
@@leongcheehoe5286 i just purchased it fr looks soo good
Great review!
Thank You!
Your reviews are ❤️
I appreciate that! 🙏
I just received the zvx; and I find the balance to be effortless, no eq,, not annoying peaks trying to keep up with bass, and bass is staying in its lane, but still giving texture and shape. I need to give these some time but they certainly can grow on me
I also bought zvx a few months ago, they were awesome, and after a week or two one of them became very silent
Nice review man.Thanks..
Thanks for the kind words!
wooooo kelia. Andy approved. Maybe I need to give a second chance for kz. Long live king Andy!!
LOL. Thanks!
Great opening. Very fun!
Thanks!
Very informative earphone review!
Thanks Gene
Nice review 👍
Thanks! 👍
Yooooo this is amazing
Great review of a very interesting product. The new rating system makes it so easy to assess the IEM's. Thank you.
Glad it was helpful!
@@donglemadness I did not expect anything else, really great review.
Thank you Andy🎉🎉🎉
You are so welcome
The rise of KZ !!! 5S KZ lets goooo thanks for the review bruhhh
My pleasure bruh hahahaha
Good Review thank มันทำให้ผมตัดสินใจซื้อ kz zvx โดยไม่ลังเล
KZ really has changed its tuning their new KZ D-Fi tuning is so interesting i want to buy it now....
From a review I've seen on the D-Fi, the tuning seems very similar to ZVX..
I wouldn't be at all surprised if they share the same drivers
@@AudioReviewsDownunder so which one i need to buy? Is it kz dfi no switch or kz zvx? Can u suggest for me?
Eiraa, my ZVX recently developed some kind of driver or housing issue, so I can't use them anymore, the sound on the right side became hollow and echoy, I'm in the process of getting a refund..
Also, I just recieved the KZ X HBB PR2 yesterday, and so far they are really good.. I'd recommend them over the ZVX, given my ZVX hasn't been the only ZVX to have issues, from what I've been told in the Facebook chifi community..
If you did happen to get a good ZVX unit, they're still worth it though..
But the PR2 would be my current KZ rec..
@@AudioReviewsDownunder ouh. Ok. Thank you for suggestion..I appreciate it.
Every pr2 suggestion need to come with default warning that it is harder to run. But if you have at least the jcally jm06 pro you should be fine.
wow, more points than a simgot ea500. You have to really love this one
I do
I think you are a great individual. I like you for no particular reason!
Thanks You! ✌
Wow 5 stars for zvx
love it
Past month, June 2024; bought 2 ZVX for 3 dollars, 1.5 dollars each.....
please review KZ Vader Hi res version & Standard one compared to KZ castor 2 versions , ZVX & D-fi(Tuning Version)
Nice video. Has anyone compared these Kz ZVX with the Kz Zs10 Pro X or the PR1 Pro?
Amazing Review! Btw, have you tried the 7hz Salnotes Zero and the Tangzhu Wan' Er? Those are also incredibly tuned neutral IEMs at the same price of $20 usd. Please do a review of those!
Thanks! Yes I have tried both and in fact you can check my other video on Battle of The Zero IEMs. Wan'Er SG I have reviewed separately but not on video
@@donglemadness Ohh I didn't know. I just found your channel today and subbed. Where can I find your review on the Wan'Er SG?
Edit: Nvm I just found your Head-fi profile with the review!
@@roundabout9452 www.head-fi.org/showcase/tangzu-wan-er-sg.26151/review/29604/
Hey Andy, I first stumbled upon your channel while seeing reviews of ZVX and bro..its awesme...the way your present + the points table..its awesome. Currently I am using KZ ESX primarily for sub-bass and bigger soundsatge for synthwave/techno/chillstep/lofi kind of music with almost negligible vocals. I want to upgrade my IEMS but they need to have sub-bass and big soundstage for sure + be little more musical than ESX + no sharp ear piercing treble . Can you please suggest something in 50$ range. Thanks in advance!!
Thanks!. It sound to me you need KZ HBB DQ6S, definitely better than ESX
@@donglemadness will you suggest to have zvx also , just because it's cheap in price and may be give me a different taste..what do you think?
@@abhishekbhardwaj7764 Yes of course, I recommend DQ6S because it has richer and denser Subbass which seems to ve suitable for your music preferences. But hey can't go wrong with ZVX if you are not an outright Basshead
Wow andy i just tried this way better than my other budget iems. like a improved version of a 7hz zero. way better tha n my edx ultra and qkz x hbb
Crazy good right? lol
Your review of the KZ LingLong has to be coming 👀
I hope so too
I have the ZVX and the Castor Bass set with all the switches on to flatten its curve and find that really helps. It is layered and more dimensional just more forward enough than the ZVX to do so but the ZVX is smooth from being less forward. They both offer wonderful listening but are different. I hear the Pula PA02 has this different signature and you mentioned the Sivga Nightengale this way too. Perhaps a review of the Pula PA02 vs the Nightengale, and ZVX is in order?
Now I am intrigued by PA02
@@donglemadness it’s all about the tuning!! I am learning!
Great review as always. Do you have the 7hz Legato on your que to review..?
Thanks David. For now I don't have Legato coming my way, we shall see. Thanks
Andi reviewing Legato will be epic 😅😂
@@lrvan LOL
Andy, Chanced upon to see your video on KZ ZVX. Very unbiased opinion. Appreciate that. Have a few queries. I am a new comer into Lossless Audio. Currently I have iPhone 15 Pro and SONY WH1000XM4. Based on your review of ZVX, planning to buy it. Hope, it will be compatible with 15 Pro with a DAC Dongle. Have shortlisted few DACs - KZ AM-01 (it's DAC Chip - CX31993 & Op-Amp MAX97220), JCally 30 (DAC Cirrus Logic Chip-CS43131& Savitech Op-Amp SA9123L), JCally JM6E, JCally JM9. Pl suggest which of these DACs that'll go well with ZVX & 15 Pro. Thanks in advance.
Thanks!. Based on the options you provided, those are all ultra compact dongles, and the reality is, they are closely matched to each other. Between AM01 and 30, they do offer a bit more of power which works better with planars as well as single DD. For ZVX I would recommend AM01 more as I feel that the synergy is good between those two
@@donglemadness Thanks for your response. Happened to watch tear down video of KZ D-Fi. Understand the DD is common in both ZVX & D-Fi. I love to listen to Indian Film Songs, Classical Songs and Western Songs with more of a Bass. With a cheap DAC Dongle connected with 15 Pro, my Sony WH1000XM4 gives excellent frequency response when played Hi-Res FLAC Songs supported by an Equaliser. I prefer more of a Thumbing Bass effect. Considering my taste, will D-Fi suit me ? If so, then AM01 should also be compatible with D-Fi. Of course, I am assuming that other aspects of technicalities of both ZVX & D-Fi on par with each other. If D-Fi is rating wise on lower side, then I would prefer to go for ZVX. Pl advise. Thanks.
Nice! Do you have a rank list you the iems you evaluated?
Thanks Renato, on my primary site I only do tier ranking for DAC dongles, but I have not done any rank tier for IEMs. So far the only sort of tier I have done was on Top 5 of 2022 which I did a video end of last year. Cheers!
I am looking to buy my first IEMs as my earphones broke and I need a cabled one since I use them a lot so a true wireless won't be enough yet. Plus I can use the IEMs wirelessly later.
My quesitont is, the KZ ZSNs are slightly cheaper where I live. And it has more drivers. FiiO JH3 and KZ ZS10 Pro is still within my budget. More drivers doesn't always mean better, so do you think it's worth getting the more expensive ones as my first IEMs or should I just go for the ZVX or ZSN?
You are right about one thing, more drivers does not mean better. What matters more is how they are tuned and implemented. Even a single DD can still be superbly superior than many hybrids. The very best IEM I own which is Shure KSE1500 is a single driver true Electrostatic and it is unmatched by anything I have ever used. Stick to ZVX and you should be good. I will even say get Tanchjim ZERO while at it since it is dirt cheap and yet to me ZERO is the best still for anything under $100
I just got this IEM. I was very suprised how it perform. I got it on sale in Indonesia for equivalent $12. I bought because it look very nice. It was shocking to hear it on my Hiby dap. I wish I had seeen this video before, I would have bought it sooner. I have two questions, if you have time. First, what is the best foam tips I can buy for ZVX? The box came with only one set of foams, too small, and the others were the starlines. Second question, now I have KZ Pr2, which I love, and purchased after asking you if my DAP was able to drive them, yes, on double ended, high gain, at 90 out of 100 volume, can open up beautifully..and have ZVX, which is mind boggling at the price...what is your recommendation for my next KZ set? Thank you...great video!
That's awesome. Eartips really is dependent on the wearer biology. The same tips you mentioned as being small is the very same one that I like and use the most. 70% of my ear tips now are KZ Foams which I bought separately off AliExpress/Shopee. Perhaps you can check if they have the size you need. Always remember that what works for me, may not work for others.
Next KZ set? after Krila/Castor/AS24 II don't have any newer KZ yet. To me, ZVX/DF-i/PR2 are the ones that stand out the most still
@@donglemadness Thanks so much, will order the kz foams in different sizes.. Good, I don't have to try those other kz sets, I will get the Dfi next..you have the one with switches?
Dear Andy, thank you for this review. Basend on your opinion and other RUclipsrs I decided to purchase this model (currently using KZ ZS10 pro which I really like). I listen mostly to electronic music and would like to ask you how this KZ ZVX compare to SIMGOT EA500? The score in your videos is almost the same with 5 star grade. In the near future I probably will be wanting to buy something even better than ZVX and was wondering if I should go for SIMGOT EA500, will this be an emprovement over the ZVX or can you say that despite the price they are equally good? Thank you !
Between ZVX and EA500, the tuning is slightly different. But on technical aspect they are pretty much on par. I would even say the EA500 with Red Nozzle will be focused on "warmer" sort of sound. ZVX is notably closer to neutral target while EA500 is just minor hint of coloration. But either way both are already great in their own way and can't go wrong with any of them
@@donglemadness thank you for the response, i wonder what the future will bring because if I understood correctly this is a great time for cheap IEMs as some of the newest releases can compete with much pricier gear from couple years ago.
@@adamtchorzewski6961 It wil will probably get better but it could also get stagnant. What is certain, what's already good will remain good
Awesome review as always. Please I want your honest opinion which chifi iem has the best macrodynamics or macro detail? I've been spoilt with ESX's macro detail which even my $400 IEM doesn't come close in that area. ESX has made me to dig into my music library again and again. Sadly I don't have my ESX again plus the new batch doesn't have that magic 'macro deatil' not micro detail
You are looking at it, ZVX and the other version I am testing now, DF-i. Both are amazing with details handling both Macro and Micro. Even CCA CXS was already good at it. You can also look into Simgot EA500 with black nozzle. I have tried the ESX and I must say the ESX does not offer the sort of resolution and accuracy like ZVX does
@@donglemadness thanks for your reply. I have EA500, I will switch to to the black nozel to see the magic.
@@donglemadness out of kz ZVX and D-FI WHICH one do you consider to do a much better job with macro-detail and imaging?
@@Mykeoguns I am still testing DF-i so just wait a bit more before I can answer that. Thanks
@@donglemadness I will surely wait. I cannot thank you enough for your great job and input in the audiophile community ❤️
Hello again
Any recommendations for an upgrade cable compatible with the ZVX that has pause button built in?
Thank you!
I personally haven't tried this type of cable that has pause function. That would probably depend on your source as well. Perhaps you can check on some QDC pin cables that has MIC which normally also has buttons for use with Play/Pause
So i have the zvx and listened to it for about 2 days now. It sounds so good! I haven't had another kz iem before, so i can't compare.
It's ok from my phone, listening to Spotify. But with quieter songs from cayin n3, there's a slight noise floor even on low gain. Would you recommend abigail pro to improve it? To eliminate noise floor and improve air extension?
Yes, it simply means that ZVX being highly sensitive will pick up artifacts and background noises. Something like Abigail Pro could help to emit cleaner background as with many other good dongles including JCally JM7 (essentially similar to Abigail Pro)
@@donglemadness hi again and sorry if unrelated to the video. So I already tried my zvx with my laptop. But the laptop does not detect it. Admittedly, my laptop takes some plugging-unplugging routine from my full sized cans before I hear anything.
Do you think a dongle like Abigail could negate the problem?
@@dedmatters It seems your laptop has issues with the Audio jack. Plugging in any type of external DAC can solve that issue
@@donglemadness thank you for replying!
hello andy, for now i really love tanchjim zero because of you haha so i'm kinda curious, what is the upgrade of this iem?
That would be either Kinera Idun Golden if you want very neutral flat sound curve (but very organic), or BQEYZ Winter or TANGZU Heyday, all three of them I loved very dearly
Спасибо друг! Ты лучик света в этом мире. Благодаря тебе я еще верю в альтруизм и доброе начало в человеке.
Не за что. Ты почтил меня. Спасибо!
Hi Andy. Have you tried KZ PR1 PRO. People claim it’s better than pr1, pr2 and pr3? Also, could you share the link to your IEM spreadsheet? I could only find dongle spreadsheet. Thanks.
Unfortunately no, I haven't tried PR1 Pro. The 2023 IEM XLS is here: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/18asFuMD3tRNT5WOOJDZS5GLe9wUW2Lxv/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=112460069217171938319&rtpof=true&sd=true
How is the kz zvx, vs the ZS 10 pro X? I heard its a lot bigger size wise and heavier.
I would not know, I don't have ZS 10 Pro in my hand. Sorry
I am very curious why the tkzk ouranos hasn't been mentioned again in these newer reviews. Are these cheaper iems like the tanchjim zero and the kz better sounding for your own taste than the ouranos?
I have tons of IEMs and I will of course mention the ones that I personally use regularly and fit best my preferences. What is best for me is of course Tanchjim ZERO by account that I use it more over tons of others I have in hand. That doesn't mean the rest are less favourable, the fact remains, so many IEMs now exhibits amazing quality and I have yet to find anything this year that I would consider as bad
@@donglemadness Ok I think I should try the zero before moving forward since I dont use iems nearly as much as full size headphones
Hey Andy! What about the soundstage?? And comparison with kz zsn pro?
Thanks😊
Soundstage is normal, I never tried ZSN Pro so, I have no idea how they compares
@@donglemadness Thank you 😊
what would be your recommendations for wider soundstage iems, or your top 3 list in both budget and expensive ??
@@Dr.Anwarali Anything under $200, Tanchjim ZERO is the one with the most open and wide soundstage, on top of being illegally great sounding. Then if you want the best, Hidizs MP145 and Final Audio A5000, two of my regular favourites
@@donglemadness thank you very much for your recommendations 😊
I watch lots of movies and listen to all types of songs and i need a theatrical effect so do u prefer this ZVX ? And my other options are eda balanced version and zsn pro x
I would suggest this ZVX or DF-i, any one of them and it will be fitting to your needs. Also there's still Tanchjim ZERO
@@donglemadness TQ for ur rapid response bro 💖
hello, should i buy this or QKZ x HBB for PC use?
The problem is, I haven't tried QKZ x HBB so I can't compare. But for PC usage, yes ZVX is more than fine
hi,
i am from a little country in Africa(Burkina Faso).I love your reviews.How does this ZVX compare to kz PR1 hifi in terms of technicalities?I altready have 7hz zero and i like it but I am looking for something more engaging with better technicalities.thanks
PR1 is great with technicalities as well but would require even more power to shine. ZVX is more efficient yet I also think it has more refined presentation with technicalities. But it is very close with both of them because, both already pushing the standards really high.
@@donglemadnessThanks ever so much for replying me. I use a sonata E44 as a dongle.Do you think this can make the pr1 shine enough to make a real difference with the KZ ZVX?thanks
@@alexandrezoubga More than enough
@@donglemadness Which one is the brighter please?I like energetic treble presentation.Thanks again for the time and passion put in your reviews.
@@alexandrezoubga The most energetic dongles are E44, PEE51, Earmen Sparrow, iBasso DC04 (non Pro). They have enough brightness I consider as proper. If you need more brightness, go for JCally JM20, E1DA 9038, HIBY FC3 etc
anyone here used zvx for a week already? coz i'm slightly worried about driver flex. apparently the linglong has noticeable driver flex -- i saw 3 people say that the sound is already affected and one said that the driver is already damaged.
zvx has a vent hole, then you shouldn't worry about driver flex.
@@migracing8232 do u also have the tangzu wan'er? what are the cons of both?
@@migracing8232 i'm slightly scared of the sharp 8k peak. i'm pretty treble sensitive. what ear tips do u use with zvx?
@@migracing8232hi bro what the difference between zvx and krila?
I had the same thought, it's not like any KZ I've heard either... Very flat for a KZ.
And very detailed too...
Which one according to you sounds the best 7hz zero or This ZVX in mids vocals soundstage only
ZVX absolutely
@@donglemadness differences in vocals instruments and soundstage I already have zero planning to get zvx
@@Smzxe You want the best soundstage it is Tanchjim ZERO, it also offer natural and neutral vocals
Currently I'm using kz esx. N i want to upgrade with a price that is not far different. Kz dfi no switch, kz zvx or stay in kz esx or another brand? I like to listen to the natural sound. Vocal lively , sound stage wide, bass but not too much. Which one I need to buy? Can u suggest for me?
DF-i or ZVX definitely. DF-i however is closer to neutral sound. ZVX is a bit thicker with lower frequencies. But both already better than ESX
@@donglemadness dfi no switch also same with zvx?
@@eira09 Could be, I never tried it personally so I can't be sure
@@donglemadness ok tq for the suggestion. 👍🏻
haha the frequency response chart is acutaly similar to 7hz zero. for the zvx, their best kz so far.
Which one is better between KZ ZVX vs Salnotes Zero, please reply
ZVX is better than Salnotes Zero for me, more resolving and better balanced
@@donglemadness thank you for the response
Anyone can enlighten me which one is the best sounding: KZ ZVX, KZ D-Fi, Tin C3, TKZK Ouranos?
Best sounding can be very subjective to what you prefer more in sound tuning. Do you like it neutral or close to neutral? do you like it more of Harman tuning? more bass? more treble? all comes into play. ZVX and DF-i are practically similar. C3 and Ouranos also quite similar in the way they are tuned, can't go wrong with any one of them
@@donglemadness thanks for your your Input. But in terms of technical performance, which ones are the best of those four? Could it possibly the cheaper ones are better in technicalities? Or is it just an unwritten rule that the more expensive the IEMs the better their technicalities?
@@wanaboed ZVX and DF-i are superior with technicalities of course compared to C3 and Ouranos
Is kz zvx better than simgot ea500?
They share the same spot. Each scoring 86 and 87 points respectively. But if you want a bit of precision, ZVX it is, a bit of smoothness EA500 (with Red Nozzle). Can't go wrong with any one of them
Any plan for reviewing topping dx1
Not in my plan for now as I have a few backlogs I need to complete first. Thanks!
@@donglemadness ohk looking forward to the backlog 😁
Rating for the tanzero?
Tanchjim ZERO will never be officially rated because I am so very biased with it since it is my personal favorites among many
Which better treble/mid,,chu or zvx?
ZVX
@@donglemadness tq,,what about qkz hbb khan??khan is better soundstage or zvx?
@@eryharunGmailCom I have never tried Khan so I would not know
This zvx is truly amazing at any price point if u want an upgrade the moondrop starfield..you have to pay big bucks for great iem is a total myth
And don't forget they are super fun to listen to. V shape is dead!
Ia zvx better cca cxs ??
Yes, ZVX is an improved IEM over what CXS started
Which Better than Kz Dfi 🤔 ?
Currently testing both. I will have DF-i review this week
@@donglemadness okay 😁 Let's go 😁
Ty for the review. But sadly, very harsh treble and highs. I only listen to Power and speed metal like Blind Guardian, Symphony X etc. Useless foe this kind on music, returned then the next day.
I would give them a 4/10 overall.
Andy is still saying TanZero is the king
I use ZERO more over everything else, including my $2000 USD KSE1500, which is the absolute king of IEMs, so it is a very personal thing to me this ZERO, as I said it clicks to my taste, not exactly a king or anything like that as ZERO has it downsides too. Just a very personal thing
This is a surprise coming from KZ
Now I'm curious how this competes to the 7hz Salnotes Zero, Tangzu Wan Er, Truthear Hola and all of the other iems in this price
Its crazy how more iems keep getting cheap while becoming more and more capable of delivering good quality sound
Thank you for the in depth review as always will definitely check this out myself
I have 7hZ ZERO, Wan'Er SG and Hola and a few more within this price range. I can say that both KZ ZVX and Simgot EA500 are both superior to any of those under $100 in terms of sonic performances. Well at least I really like the smooth, musical Wan'Er SG, but definitely 7Hz/Salnotes ZERO and HOLA are not something I would personally prefer to use. Thanks again!
@@donglemadness
Thank you for your insight on the other iems mentioned, interesting to know that you prefer the KZ ZVX
I want to ask an additional question though, you mentioned that your favorite is the Tanchjim Zero and began researching about it.
Have you tried the Tanchjim OLA the original and Bass version yet? Others are saying thats the iem to get instead of the Tanchjim Zero
I'm pretty much experimenting on iems on the cheaper side first before I ever spend $100 - $200
@@roviccastillo9087 Yes. I have both OLA versions as well and I prefer ZERO way more over the OLAs. In fact I have 4 Tanchjim ZEROs with me which I use regularly over many other IEMs that I have. It just simply clicks to my taste and preferences. I even declared that Tanchjim ZERO is the only IEM I need if I have to settle for just one, but that's just me and a very personal choice
@@donglemadness
Sorry for the lengthy conversation but I'm curious to know as well what the shortcomings of the OLA versions are for you compared to the Zero
I'll be analyzing these sets myself when they arrive but your insights in audio equipment interests me since I also value natural/organic details and tonality
@@roviccastillo9087 OLA both versions are good sets, no doubt about it. But in my view they lacked the fluidity of Tanchjim ZERO with dynamic transients due to focus on being crisp and ended up sounding a bit sharper than what I normally prefer. It is also lacking organic temperament to the tonal and timbre presentation. If you want to read the whole story, you can find it here: www.head-fi.org/showcase/tanchjim-ola-bass-version.26185/review/29598/
Now i hope my linglong not arrived so i can cancel order and buy this instead lol
Lol
5 star for a KZ??!! wtf?
why not?
Very complicated setup
This beats the Simgot EA500 and the Heyday by about 5 points…💀
No point in comparing it to the rest of the $20 line up then huh?
---
Update: I goofed and misread the charts. 😅
If you check again EA500 total score is 86/100. ZVX is 87/100. Also consider the element of timbre and tone as well where the differences could work for one person, may not so much on others. EA500 (red nozzle) has smooth dynamics energy where ZVX is more on crisp attack (if both compared side by side).
@@donglemadness Ope I Misread the chart!! My bad 😅
My fren from nilai hate kz
Is his name start with neo ?
@@EGxSenSei i think his has piss rapiss pronounce something laik that
Give him this or the linglong and he won't hate them anymore
KZ had hit and misses, that's normal